Embark on an unforgettable full-day excursion to the Samaria Gorge, the longest gorge in Europe and a must-see National Park in Crete. Our trekking tour begins with a scenic coach ride through the western Crete heartland, climbing 1,250 meters above sea level to the Omalos Plateau. Surrounded by the majestic White Mountains (Lefka Ori), we reach Xyloskalo (the „Wooden Step“), where your 16km hiking adventure begins.
The Samaria Gorge houses rare fauna and flora and has therefore been proclaimed a national park for its preservation (you will admire most of them during the excursion). The gorge of Samaria is the longest in Europe at 16km long. Its width ranges from between 150m to 3m at its narrowest point.
Six hours should see you through in comfort and leave you time to take photos along the way -as you will certainly want to do. There are no particular difficulties as it gradually makes its way down toward sea level and there are also signals and signs to show you the way. Be sure to wear strong and comfortable footwear. NO SANDALS!
During your hike you will find a river, a trickle in the summer but a rush of wild water in winter, a tiny stone church, Agios Nikolaos, stands beside the river, which you cross and re-cross under the eucalyptus and chestnut trees. After a few kilometres you will approach the abandoned village of Samaria under giant cliffs near the halfway point. Its few houses were evacuated in 1962. It was always a resistance centre. The Turks never managed to take it, and it proved to be a nest of vipers for the Nazis during WWII. There are fountains here and picnic tables under the trees.Throughout the entire length of the gorge there are streams and springs with fresh mountain water that is fine to drink.
You know you’ve made it through when you reach the port village of Agia Roumeli. Here we will meet up at the taverna Kri Kri‘ where we will arrange the boat tickets. At the tavern you can enjoy lunch while waiting for the boat that will bring you to Sougia village where our busses will be waiting for your return and if you have made it through the gorge in ample time you may get a chance for a swim in the crystal clear fresh waters of the Libyan Sea. Your journey of this magical gorge will be forever in your mind and your heart for sure !!!
